As they say, change is as good as a holiday, and a new hairstyle is the best way to mix things up. While there is nothing wrong with a solid rotation of straight, curls, top knots, and ponytails, a styled cut can drastically improve your hair game. It can be hard to keep track of all the hair trends, and deciding what cut to get can be daunting. So to help you up your mane game, we have rounded up the most popular hairstyles and haircuts for women.
RELATED: The Most Flattering Haircuts For Your Face Shape
1. Short Wavy Bob
The bob haircut is one of the most significant hairstyle trends of late. It is the perfect combination of edgy yet pretty with just the right amount of masculinity to make it on-trend. If you’re tired of the classic bob, try mixing things up with this wavy style. Bobs and waves are a match made in hair heaven. Nothing says cool-girl chic like a touselled just rolled out of bed crop. However, if you’re still looking to turn things up, try rocking this blunt cut front fringe. It is edgy and unique without being too out there. And did we mention that it is also a super-flattering style?
2. Blunt Cut
If you suffer from thin hair syndrome, you’ll know the struggle of wanting a cute pixie cut and leaving the salon looking like a baby-haired Draco Malfoy. Well, those dreaded days are over. A blunt cut is perfect for women with thin hair who still want to rock a shorter style. Not only are blunt cuts a great way to frame your face and accentuate your features, but they are also universally flattering and very on-trend. If you haven’t noticed, the masculine trend is on the rise, and a blunt cut in short hair is the perfect way to dive headfirst into the manly mania. If you want to keep a femme element, try adding a few waves throughout your hair or rock a pair of extravagant earrings or a feminine, flowy dress.
3. Low Bun
Even with the chicest cut, there will still be some days when you can’t resist the messy bun. It is the bad boy of hairstyles; we know we shouldn’t do it, but its allure is just too strong. With short hair, you may find yourself struggling to achieve the messy high bun. If so, go for the low option. This may not be something you have thought of, but a low messy bun achieves the same level of simple styling as a high topknot while making your locks appear thicker too. Just gather your hair at the nape of your neck and twist it into a bun the same way you would if the hair was on top of your head. If you have bangs, allow them to fall freely across your face, or pull a few strands out around your face and behind your ears to create a soft, elegant style.
4. Short and Straight
Who says you need long locks to rock the iconic Rachel Green look? Short, straight hair with a mid-part is one of the all-time greats. And it’s not going anywhere anytime soon. Mix up the classic 90s style with a blunt bob and a platinum blonde. This cut is striking, flattering, and just screams attitude. Channel your inner punk rock princess with a deep purple or red lipstick and heavy eye makeup.
5. Pixie Cut
Going short can be very daunting for women with thick hair. When it goes wrong, it goes very, very wrong (we’ve all had those awkward bowl-looking haircuts). But the key to nailing short styles with thick hair is layers and texture. Avoid blunt cuts, as this style will add bulk to your hair. Instead, go for a layered, textured pixie cut. The layers will take some of the weight out of your luscious locks allowing them to sit and flow with ease.
6. Twists
A few sexy twists are a great way to breathe some life into your cropped hairstyle. Not only is this a unique look, but it will also protect your locks too. The twists require zero additional styling and will let your hair repair itself from damage sustained from heat, coloring, and just the general wears and tears of life.
7. Short Hair with Bangs
Bangs are back, and short hair is here to stay, so why not combine two of the biggest hair trends from recent years? Simple and easy to style, bangs also require very little maintenance other than the occasional trim. Bangs in short hair work particularly well as they frame your face, drawing attention to your features. This can also be a slimming style if you find your short hair is making you look a little fuller in the face. From side bangs to curtain bangs there are endless styling opportunities when it comes to bangs.
8. Short Thin Hair
From bobs to faux hawks, pixie cuts, undercuts, asymmetric styles, and everything in between, short cuts were made for thin hair. That’s when they’re styled right of course. A short haircut is one of the best ways to not only create the illusion of thickness but also, to allow your hair to thicken up naturally. With regular trims and less styling, your hair will become healthier. Therefore, it will begin to grow much faster and thicken up on its own over time.
9. Short Thick Hair
You may be hesitant to partake in the short hair trend if you are blessed with naturally thick hair. But, short styles look like magic in a thick mane. Making the chop can also be a great way to take some weight out of your locks for the summer months. Ladies with thick hair can rock anything from short pixie cuts to bobs, with choppy layers, front fridges or side sweeping bangs. The key to short, thick hair is texture. So make sure to add a few layers to keep your hair light and sitting nicely.
10. Short Curly Hair
If you find your long curls are weighing you down then why not make the chop? Not only will a short style make your curls more manageable, but this flirty hairstyle is ideal for summer. From pin-curled pixie cuts and bouncy bobs, the styling opportunities for short curly hair are truly versatile.
11. 90s Middle Part Ponytail
Channel the celebrity go-to hairstyle with this sleek middle part ponytail. This style is perfect for babes with in-between length hair. This is because medium hair is the easiest to pull back, and it sits nicer and more effortlessly in a ponytail than heavy long hair. Pull your hair into a pony in the middle of your head at the back, and don’t forget to leave two thick strands out at the front. Rock it with some quirky shades or get out your glitter and go for some 90s makeup.
12. Professional Hairstyles
Your hair says a lot about you and your professionalism. Super long hair is typically shared by young girls and hippies, while short hair can give off a rebellious or older impression. If you’re trying to play it safe in the professional sector, try one of these professional hairstyles.
13. Top Knot with Lob
The top knot and the lob are made for each other. The lob is the biggest thing in hair since Princess Diana’s pageboy haircut, and the top knot is the only style to rival this cool girl cut. So it only makes sense that the two should be paired together in holey-hair matrimony. The addition of a top knot will also add some extra volume if your hair is lacking in the body department.
14. Asymmetrical Lob
If you’re after an edgy cut but don’t want to go too short, an asymmetrical lob might be right up your alley. This A-line style is particularly flattering and not as sharp as some other asymmetric styles. Meaning, it is easier to grow out and can still be worn in a pony if you have hair regrets. But, we don’t think you’ll have anything to worry about with this uber cool and on-trend style.
15. Deep Side Part
A deep side part is a great way to give the classic lob a trendy new take. While the lob itself is still very much a hit style, you can update your look by simply styling your hair into a deep side part and flicking one side over. This sleek and sophisticated style works equally as well for casual days as it does for formal outings.
16. Vintage Curls
Long hair has a reputation for being sexy, but don’t discount the sex appeal of medium-length locks. Marilyn Monroe certainly proved that with her bouncy mid-length curls. Style your locks using a thick curling wand, keeping the stands flat as you wrap them around the curler. Brush your hair out to create voluminous waves and style to one side.
17. Lob
We cannot forget the iconic lob. The lob has soared to popularity because of its laid back and easy nature. It requires almost zero styling yet offers endless styling opportunities. It is trendy yet timeless, mature yet youthful and can still be easily pulled back for lazy days.
18. Bob
There are few styles as classic and universally flattering as the bob haircut. This is a timeless classic for women’s hair and an excellent way to draw attention to the face, as the way the hair is cut at chin length can highlight your features, in particular your cheekbones and eyes. The cut can be adapted to suit your hair texture and preference, including styling it with bangs.
19. French Braids
Get your long locks off your face with a pair of beautiful French Braids. This fierce look is certainly having its moment in the sun. So why not take advantage of a style that looks chic and lets you get stuff done. Rock your braids from the gym to the club, the shops and even to sleep, the French braid is versatile, stylish and easy, once you’ve mastered it.
20. Updo
Don’t shy away from updos just because of your long-flowing mane. An up style is well worth the extra time and effort. Set your hair with hot rollers so that curls hold firmly in place, pull them, and pin them back as you like. From low-rolled buns to curled-up styles you can have the prom hairstyle of dreams, no matter how long your locks.
21. Half Up Half Down
If an updo isn’t really your vibe, you can always rock a half up half down hairstyle. The top knot or half bun is the obvious choice for many reasons. One is that it looks cute and two, its an easy style for long-haired women. This style can be worn dressy or casual and is also a great way to make it an extra day between washes.
22. Straight Long Hair
Sometimes you just have to keep it simple, and there is nothing chicer than smooth straight hair. To achieve this divine look, firstly, you’ll want to apply a hair mask to tame any split ends or flyaways. Dry your hair thoroughly and in sections using a flat brush. Straighten your locks in sections while combing them through at the same time. Run a small amount of anti-frizz through your mid-lengths and ends and set using a small amount of hairspray to add a slight sheen.
23. Senegalese Twists
Senegalese twists are a great option if you’re on the hunt for a protective style that is still fun and flirty for summer. These rope-like twists work well with long hair extensions, for a trendy and chic look.
24. Waterfall Braids
Waterfall braids are not only one of the most stunning styles in long hair, but they’re also one of the easiest to achieve. This feminine look is perfect to adorn with pretty clips and headwear for spring or to try out for summer weddings. It is also a sneaky way to style your hair when you’re in between washes.
25. Box Braids
Braids and long hair are the perfect pair. They keep your long strands out of your face while protecting them from heat and styling damage all while looking chic. But if you’re tired of the standard french braids, why not go for a cool box braid instead?
26. Undercut
An undercut is a great way to edge up your look without losing too much length. You can undercut your hair at the back or the sides, but we recommend one side. This badass yet feminine look features hair which is shaved at one side with remaining length flicked over in the opposite direction.
27. Fishtail Braids
Another update on a standard braid, the fishtail braid is stunning and surprisingly easy. First, separate your hair into two even sections. Take a small piece, about half an inch wide form the outside part, and pull it over to meet the inside of the opposing section. Repeat this process on the other side and continue to complete your fishtail braid.
28. Inverted Bob
Just because you have long locks doesn’t mean you have to miss out on all the fun of the inverted bob. This is a super sexy style that works just as well in short hair as it does in long hair. The short part at the back of your head will add volume and natural movement while the long front section will provide more styling opportunities.
29. Wispy Bangs
Wispy bangs are a gorgeous addition to any haircut. These piece-y barely bangs are natural-looking and incredibly low-maintenance and can be worn with all hair textures and lengths. This includes thin and fine hair, which can be challenging to style in other bangs. The way the hair falls on the face can soften your features and is incredibly flattering.
30. Long Hair with Bangs
Bangs are great for drawing attention to the face and can be adapted to complement your face shape and hair texture. Bangs can also have a youthful appearance and are ideal for women of all ages. Long hair is excellent because it allows you to show off your hair texture but also gives you versatility with styling. You can easily wear the hair up or down.
31. Curtain Bangs
One of the most popular fringe styles in recent years is curtain bangs. The bangs are cut with a parting in the middle, which frames the face and will draw attention to your features. You can create them in various lengths and thicknesses to best suit your preference and complement your face shape. Curtain bangs are universally flattering and an excellent addition to your haircut.
32. Senegalese Twist
If you are looking for a stylish and expressive protective style look no further than the Senegalese Twist. They are created by using straight braiding hair. They are stunning, low-maintenance, and can be styled in multiple ways, including small or jumbo strands. Senegalese twists can be time-consuming to install but are long-lasting and will remain for around eight to sixteen weeks.
33. Passion Twist
Passion twists are one of the newer offerings to braided hairstyles and are loved because of their gorgeous, wavy appearance. They were designed by Miami hairstylist Kailyn Rogers, who also goes by the name The BohoBabe. It can be worn at various lengths and thicknesses. They are also a protective style that will give you a break from heat styling and can aid natural hair growth. Passion twists are also perfect for summer because they are waterproof.
34. Gender Natural Haircut
The gender-neutral haircut is appealing to those who want an androgynous hairstyle. It is defined by having neither traditionally masculine nor feminine elements to it and can suit everyone. Some of the most popular looks include the curly bob, a shag haircut, a wolf cut, and a buzz cut. The styles can be easily adapted to suit your preference and are a great way to embrace your individuality and ditch stereotypes.
35. Shag
The shag haircut was first popularized in the 70s but remains relevant today because of its versatility. The hair on the top is kept thicker and fuller, while the back and sides thin out. It is a heavily layered cut that can be adapted to suit all hair textures and is excellent for giving hair movement. For thin hair, it can also create the illusion of thickness while removing weight and bulk from thick hair.
36. Bob
There are few styles as classic and universally flattering as the bob haircut. This is a timeless classic for women’s hair and an excellent way to draw attention to the face, as the way the hair is cut at chin length can highlight your features, in particular your cheekbones and eyes. The cut can be adapted to suit your hair texture and preference, including styling it with bangs.
37. Long Bob
The long bob, or lob haircut, is longer than the standard cut and gives you more versatility with styling. This length, which is usually cut just above or at shoulder length can be styled in simple updos like a low ponytail or bun. It is also flattering on women of all ages and be personalized to suit your preference and complement your face shape.
38. Wolf Haircut
The wolf cut is the ideal look for someone who wants something modern and rebellious. It is essentially a combination of the mullet and the shag with a deliberately unstructured appearance. The heavy layers are created to give the hair movement. It can be styled to suit various hair textures and can be paired with bangs, like curtain bangs, that frame the face and complement your features.
39. E-Girl Hairstyle
The E-Girl hairstyle is expressive and effortlessly cool. It has emerged on social media platforms like TikTok and has been inspired by various subcultures to create an alternative style that is fun, youthful, and super cute. The appeal of Egirl hair is there are very few rules, letting you find a way to express yourself with bright and bold colors, interesting coloring techniques, including the money piece or split dye, or with pretty hairstyles like pigtails and space buns.
40. Layered Haircut
Layered hair refers to the technique of cutting the hair at various angles to give it movement. The layers can be heavy or soft, depending on your desired outcome, and work well with most hair textures. For thick hair, layers can remove the bulk and weight, whereas for thin and fine hair, layers can create the illusion of thicker, fuller locks.
41. Messy Bun
The bun hairstyle is one of the most effortlessly chic updos you can try. It can be worn with hair of all textures and lengths. You can style it to be sleek and polished for formal events or create a more laidback aesthetic with a messy bun. The deliberately unstructured appearance is excellent for those who want a soft, romantic hairstyle, and the way the hair falls around the face can be incredibly flattering. The look works best with naturally textured hair.
42. Space Buns
Space buns are an excellent style for younger women and are cute and youthful. The look features two buns, one on either side of the head, and can be styled in many ways. This includes a half up half down hairstyle or wispy bangs. Space buns are incredibly versatile and can be worn with various hair textures and lengths; the longer and thicker your hair is, the bigger the buns will be.
43. Rubber Band Hairstyle
Your hairstyle can say a lot about your personality. If you are looking for a fun and youthful way to wear your hair, look no further than the rubber band hairstyle. This look is achieved with the use of rubber bands, which can be added to the hair in various ways, including with a criss-cross pattern on the scalp. For a unique approach, you could also create a simpler appearance by sectioning the hair in neat rows.
44. Crimp Hairstyle
Crimped hair gives the hair a distinct Z-shaped pattern and is great for creating waves. The technique was popular in the 80s and was all about achieving volume, but the modern approach is more subtle, instead giving you romantic waves in the hair, which can be incredibly pretty and flattering, working to soften sharp features.
45. A-Line Haircut
The A-line haircut is a popular style because it is flattering on most face shapes. The cut is defined by its unusual shape, with the hair longer at the front and gradually shortening toward the back. This gives you the best of both worlds, the illusion of length while the benefits of short care. It is also an excellent way to create movement. You can style the A-line cut in different ways, but among the most popular is the bob haircut.
46. Dreadlocks
Dreadlocks are an expressive and symbolic hairstyle defined by their rope-like appearance. It is a look that takes time and patience to create but can be worn at various lengths and thicknesses. There are also different dreadlocks techniques, including freeform and semi-freeform which will determine the structure, or lack thereof, of your hairstyle. Wear your dreads loose or style them in a stylish updo; the choice is yours.
47. Braided Ponytail
The ponytail hairstyle is one of the simplest and most versatile updos. It can be created low or high and looks great with all hair textures. For a twist on the classic ponytail, you can opt for a braided ponytail style. This can either be a simple, three-strand braid and a way to keep your hair in place, or you can pull your protective style, like box braids and lemonade braids, into a ponytail for an effortlessly cool and practical finish.
48. Sleek Ponytail
The sleek ponytail is a gorgeous look and will be perfect for various occasions, including more formal ones. The key is to ensure the hair is kept neat for a polished and sophisticated appearance, and you do not want fly-away pieces. This look is best suited to straight hair but can be worn long or short.
49. Feed-In Braids
Feed-in braids are an excellent option because they reduce installation time. These hair extensions are premade and seamlessly added to the hair to create a natural appearance. There are many styles to choose from, making it easy to find a look that suits your preference. They are gorgeous, have no knots, and are gentle on the scalp. Feed-in braids are appealing to women who do not have the time to spend hours in the salon.
50. Lemonade Braids
Lemonade braids have enjoyed a resurgence of popularity since 2016, when Beyonce released her album and was wearing this look on the cover. She is a stylish and influential woman, so it is little surprise that the hairstyle became one of the most sought-after braided styles. It is created with cornrows and styled in thin braids that are side-swept.
50. Fulani Braids
Fulani braids are a tribal hairstyle that can be traced to the Fula people of West Africa. The style is defined by a central cornrow in the middle of the head and cornrows on either side of the head. The rest of the hair is worn in long, thin braids which resemble box braids, and it is often adorned with beads. The style can be adapted to suit your preference with the choice of accessories you choose and the color of your hair.
51. Cornrow Braids
Cornrows are a protective style created by braiding the hair close to the scalp. The hair is sectioned and raised in neat rows, and this is done with the underhand braiding technique. The appeal of cornrows is their versatility, and they can form the foundation for many braided styles or be worn on their own for a stylish and low-maintenance hairstyle.
52. Pop Smoke Braids
Pop Smoke braids are a protective style that has been inspired by the hairstyle of the late rapper Pop Smoke. They are cornrows stitched in braids, often with four sections. The look is also defined by its middle parting. Pop Smoke braids can be worn by men and women and is an incredibly versatile hairstyle that can be created in various thicknesses, lengths, and colors.
53. Dutch Braids
Dutch braids are simple and cute hairstyles created using the underhand braiding technique. These braids are raised, which makes them more noticeable, and they can be worn with different accessories and colors. The simplicity of the braid makes them a versatile style that can be adapted to most hair textures and will suit medium and long hair best.
54. Bantu Braids
Bantu knots are an excellent way to embrace your natural hair texture and are also a protective style that will reduce daily styling time. The knots have links to the Zulu tribes of South Africa and are created by sectioning the hair, twisting it, and securing it in a knot-like shape on the head. You can also style the hair in with braided hair first to create larger and more textured knots.
55. Tribal Braids
Tribal braid is a broad term that refers to many different braided styles that have been inspired by specific tribes. This includes Fulani braids and Ghana braids. The braiding pattern on the hair can say a lot about the wearer, including relationship status, achievements, and social hierarchy. Tribal braids are also an excellent option to celebrate your heritage.
56. Yarn Braids
Yarn braids are created using yarn instead of braiding hair. This is one of the best options for experimenting with color without causing damage to your natural hair. They can be dyed in bold, bright hues, making for an unmissable hairstyle. Yarn braids have a rope-like appearance and can be worn at various lengths and thicknesses, making it easy to adapt them to suit your preference and style them as you wish.
57. Goddess Braids
Goddess braids are essentially thick cornrows and are created using the underhand braiding technique. This is a versatile and stylish hairstyle that can be worn at various lengths and can be adapted to suit your preference with how you style and color them. Wear them up or down and with accessories to let your personality shine.
58. Bubble Braids
One of the simplest and effortlessly chic looks that can be created within minutes is the bubble braid. It is done by adding several hair elastics to the length of a ponytail. The hairstyle is ultra-cool and can be added to all hair textures and medium to long lengths. It is a great way to tame your curls and keep them in place or to give straight hair more volume and create the appearance of texture.
59. Knotless Braids
Knotless braids are installed without a knot and are a great look for women wanting to reduce tension on the scalp. It is also an appealing technique for those with thin and fine hair and will likely result in less breakage. Knotless braids can be easily adapted to suit your preference, with a wide range of lengths, thicknesses, and styles on offer.
60. Crochet Braids
Crochet braids are done using the crochet installation technique. This is an excellent choice for braided hair because the installation is quick and easy. It is done by adding hair extensions to the hair by using a crochet hook. The extensions are pre-styled, curled, and colored and can be made from real or synthetic hair, depending on your preference.
61. Buzzcut
The buzz cut is a short hairstyle that is typically worn by men, but embracing short hair can be a freeing experience and is incredibly stylish for women. The cut will add definition to soft features and complement sharp ones and is a great look for someone who wants a low-maintenance and effortlessly cool style. Before getting a buzz cut, you need to consider your face shape and scalp, as any perceived imperfections will be highlighted by the cut.
62. Perm
The perm hairstyle is an excellent way to alter your natural texture. There are different types of perms, letting you experiment with the finish, whether you want coiled ringlets or soft, beachy waves. Unlike the traditional perm, which was about big hair and volume, the versatility of the modern perm is what makes it so appealing, and it is a great alternative to daily heat styling.
Haircuts for Women FAQs
What is the most popular womens haircuts?
The most popular women's haircuts are the pixie cut, bob, lob, bangs, shag, and blunt haircut.
What is the hairstyle for 2022?
The trendiest hairstyles for 2022 are throwing it back to the 70s for inspiration. The modern shag and curtain bangs are two of the most popular hairstyles for women. The shag is an edgy take on layers providing lots of texture and movement. Meanwhile, curtain bangs are a great way to keep the length, yet still frame the face with a fringe.
What is the easiest haircut to maintain?
The easiest haircut to maintain for women is the bob and lob haircuts. They have a decent amount of length that makes them versatile, without the effort of super long hair. You can wash, dry, and style fairly efficiently at this length as well. Plus, these styles only need semi-regular cuts to keep the shape, so you don't have to visit the salon every six weeks.
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